In an emotional and sometimes serious farewell speech from the Oval Office, President Joe Biden summed up his four years in power. With a clear focus on the nation’s achievements, trials and future challenges, he addressed Americans with a call to continue to protect democracy.
He highlighted the growing concentration of wealth and power in a limited elite as a serious threat.
“Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America, which literally threatens our democracy.”
Warns of the spread of misinformation
The rise of technology was also mentioned as a particular source of concern. Biden warned of how disinformation spread digitally is eroding public debate:
“The free press is falling apart. (. . .) Social media have given up on fact-checking. The truth is suffocated by lies that are spread for power and profit.”
He stressed that artificial intelligence, which he said has the potential to improve lives, could also pose a serious threat to human rights and privacy if not regulated.
“We must ensure that AI is safe, reliable and beneficial to all of humanity.” said the president.
Leaving the role soon
Joe Biden will formally leave office on January 20 when Donald Trump is sworn in, and tonight’s speech was his last major appearance as president.
“This will be my last speech to you, the American people, from the Oval Office, from this desk as president.” said the Democrat.